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APPLICATIONS OPEN | Gas in the Tank – GHBC Master Class Series
Gas in the Tank – GHBC Master Class Series
Applications Open: September 18, 2025
Deadline to Apply: October 6, 2025
In honor of former Congressman and Mayor Sylvester Turner’s legacy of fueling Black business growth, the Greater Houston Black Chamber (GHBC) presents Gas in the Tank, a 4-part Master Class Series designed to equip entrepreneurs with the practical tools and expert insights they need to thrive. Taking place this fall in partnership with the Cynthia A. Guillory Foundation and Black Entrepreneurs Week (BEW), this transformative series covers four essential pillars of business success: Pitching, Strategic Partnerships, Storytelling, and Financial Readiness.
The sessions will be led by an accomplished slate of instructors, including:
- Khaliah Guillory, corporate wellness innovator and founder of Nap Bar™
- Lyndsey Brantley, beauty industry trailblazer and founder of Camellia Alise
- Kiley Summers, fintech entrepreneur and CEO of SpenDebt
- Landi Spearman, organizational strategist and founder of Organized SHIFT®
Why This Event Matters
Black entrepreneurs face systemic barriers to capital, visibility, and long-term growth. Gas in the Tank was created to address these challenges head-on by providing tactical business training, access to expert mentorship, and a community of support rooted in shared purpose. In GHBC’s 90th anniversary year, this series stands as a direct investment in the future of Black business leadership in Houston and beyond—ensuring that our businesses are not only starting up, but scaling up with confidence, strategy, and sustainability.
What to Expect
Pitch 101
Learn how to craft and deliver a compelling pitch that captures attention and unlocks opportunities. This session will focus on structure, storytelling, delivery, and how to tailor your message to different audiences—from investors to customers.
The Art of Strategic Partnerships
Explore how to build meaningful business relationships that drive mutual growth. This class will unpack the principles of strategic collaboration, partner alignment, value exchange, and negotiation essentials.
The Art of Storytelling
Every successful brand has a story. This session will teach you how to define, refine, and communicate your personal and business story in a way that builds emotional connection, boosts visibility, and drives loyalty.
Know Your Numbers
A powerful business starts with financial clarity. This session dives into the key metrics every entrepreneur should understand—from profit margins and cash flow to forecasting and funding readiness. Participants will leave with tools to make data-driven decisions that scale.